LIfeTIMES November 2015 by Lord of Life Lutheran Church

A monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church of Maple Grove, Minnesota

LifeTIMES

A Time of Great Opportunity: Turn Two into One

by Pastor Chick Lane Every member of Lord of Life is faced with a time of great opportunity to expand the ministry of our congregation. For many years Lord of Life members have faithfully given to both the general fund of the congregation, which has supported the many ministries we do together, and the building fund, which has paid for our wonderful facilities. Because of this faithful giving and the fact that our church council has been able to refinance our mortgages at a more attractive rate, both our congregation’s ministries and our building costs will now be paid through the general fund. What this means for your giving to Lord of Life is that the building fund is going away at the end of 2015. For those who have given to both funds, this is a time of great opportunity to combine your past giving into one gift, and to know that your one gift will now accomplish what your two gifts have accomplished in the past, and even more. Your one gift will support the congregation’s ongoing ministry and also continue to pay our building costs and reduce our debt. The “even more” is even more exciting. Because we have reduced the amount of our building debt through past giving, and because we have refinanced at a more favorable rate, even more of your giving to Lord of Life will go to making a difference in our congregation and in the world, and less will go to interest payments. When we all do this, we expect to be able to prepay some principal, which will lower our mortgage debt even more quickly. For all of this to happen, members of Lord of Life who have given to both funds in the past will be asked to combine their giving into gifts to the one general fund. Members who have only given to the general fund in the past are encouraged to seize this opportunity as a time to increase their giving to the congregation.

Over the next few weeks you will be able to learn even more about this time of opportunity, and to plan your giving for 2016. There will be more information shared in worship the first two Sundays in November. Around November 10 you will receive a letter detailing your specific giving situation and providing you the opportunity to respond.

November 2015

LO R D O F LI FE LU T HE R A N C H UR CH (ELCA) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos. prayernetwork@lordoflife.org

office@lordoflife.org

/lordoflife

/lordoflife /lolcyf

/lordoflifeelca

/lordoflifeluth

Lord of Life exists to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ and for its faith community to witness and serve God gratefully in daily life. —Lord of Life’s Global Ends Policy

PASTO RAL S TA F F Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Sarah Bunge, Pastor, Evangelism/Worship, sarahb@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor, Adult Ministries, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Sue Greimel, Pastor, Pastoral Care, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, Pastor, Stewardship/Generosity, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, Pastor, Outreach/Mission, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, Pastor, Adult Education, donnar@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler, karilynw@lordoflife.org Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson, taylorw@lordoflife.org

TAB LE O F CO N T E N T S Worship and Music / Pastor’s Article . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 2-3 Lord of Life’s Family of Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 4-5 The Nelson Family / Angela Starr Testimony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 6-7 Generosity / Older Wiser Lutherans (OWLs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 8-9 Lord of Life Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages 10-14 Karing Kingdom Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15

november worship and music October 31/November 1 Pastor Chick Lane Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Joyful Noise and Alleluia! (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am) Service of Remembrance, November 1, 7:30 pm Pastor Karen Sue Greimel, Soloist Amy Cerepak See Page 4 for more details. November 7/8 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Veterans Recognition - all services Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Bel Canto, Canticle Choir (8:30 and 9:45 am), Joyful Noise (11 am) November 14/15 Pastor Dave McCarty Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: New Life Ensemble November 21/22 Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Lord of Life Brass, Soloist Taylor Wilson (8:30 am), Canticle Choir (9:45 and 11 am) Community Thanksgiving Eve Service Wednesday, November 25, 7 pm Pastoral Intern Kari Lyn Wampler, Canticle Choir See Page 4 for more details. November 28/29 Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren Saturday: Praise Band Sunday: Soloist Kari Lyn Wampler (8:30 and 9:45 am), The Thayer Family (11 am)

<> Saturdays at 5:30 pm with Holy Communion Sundays at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 am with Holy Communion the first and third Sundays Sunday C3 evenings is Ecclesia worship at 7 pm

A sweet little pumpkin is clutching her bounty on September 27; her name is Amelia. Learn about LifeGARDEN on Page 5.

Offsite worship every Sunday, 5 pm, at Mobile Hope at Maple Hill Estates; see article on Page 8 from Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson Third Sunday, November 15, worship at 10 am at Good Samaritan - Ambassador in New Hope

Worship and Music

Third Wednesday, November 18, worship at 12:45 pm at Arbor Lakes Senior Living in the 2nd floor community room and at 2:30 pm at Rose Arbor Assisted Living in their red room

2 November 2015

Healing Service, Lord of Life’s quarterly healing service is Saturday, November 21, at 6:30 pm in Lord of Life’s Prayer Chapel. Private healing appointments are also available; please contact Pastor Karen Sue Greimel directly. Worship and music schedules are subject to change.

How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news. Isaiah 52:7—

God’s Work. Our Feet. by Pastor Sarah Bunge

Especially during this month of Thanksgiving, I am thankful for big things like God’s grace, my beloved husband, political freedom, my education, two healthy children, a supportive family of origin, learning, love, and laughter. But, I also have a list of little things, that are really materialistic, but just make life more fun: jigsaw puzzles, extra crispy bacon, earrings, instant mashed potatoes, and fun shoes. In my 12 years as a pastor, I have served teeny-tiny churches and middlesized churches, rural, urban, suburban—but there has been something different in my year+ here at Lord of Life: I have never had so many comments on my footwear! I enjoy shoes. I have a pretty good collection now. I like to add to my stash at garage sales and thrift stores; though every once in awhile I will buy myself a ‘treat’ pair of brand new shoes. I have shoes from my grandmother, shoes from my mother-in-law, shoes from friends, shoes I got in exciting destinations, shoes as gifts, shoes as hand-me-downs, shoes I’ve had since high school, and now, shoes I share with my 10-year-old daughter, Grace. Why shoes? Garrison Keillor said, “How can you tell if the Lutheran you’re talking to is an introvert or an extrovert? A Lutheran introvert looks at their own shoes. A Lutheran extrovert looks at your shoes.” There is a theological explanation as well. First, let’s consider scripture. The Isaiah verse at the beginning of this article is also quoted in the book of Romans. There’s a lot of other shoe talk in the Bible too. Moses was told by the blazing bush to remove his shoes, knowing he was on holy ground (Exodus 3:5). Passover instructions include having your sandals on, right between your loins girded and your staff in hand (Exodus 12:11). Joshua was similarly instructed to remove his footwear, since he, too, found himself on holy ground (Joshua 5:15). Psalms 8, 26, 40, 56, 66, 91, 119, and 121 each employ the word foot (or feet) to help describe God’s protection and security. John the Baptist prophesied about Jesus, describing himself as not worthy to carry Jesus’ sandals (Matthew 3:11), and not worthy to untie his sandal’s thong (John 1:27). Jesus was worshiped by a woman who bathed his feet with her tears (Luke 7:38). He instructed his disciples that if their good news was not met with welcome, they should shake the dust from their feet and leave that place. Sitting at Jesus’ feet was a common expression of faithful obedience. In John’s gospel, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet before his betrayal. And then, the resurrected Jesus returned to instruct the weary grief-stricken disciples to “look at my hands and my feet!” Feet are important because they are the vehicle. Shoes are important because they protect those feet. It’s your shoe-covered feet that bring a lasagna when death visits your neighbor. It’s your feet that go where it feels uncomfortable, but you trust God’s presence to protect you like a well-worn comfortable pair of shoes. Your shoe-covered feet show up to welcome someone new to town. It’s your shoe-covered feet that hit the streets to invite people to this church. It’s your shoe-covered feet that walk with someone through a diagnosis, into a chemo treatment, down a dark road, past temptation, around addiction, and back home to God. Where have your shoe-covered feet traveled? When have you experienced holy ground? How will you travel more often by God’s guiding? May your feet be beautiful as you bring the good news to others. God’s work. Our feet.

Pastor’s Article November 2015 3

baptisms

bereavements

At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. The next baptism class will be Sunday, November 8, at 11 am. No pregistration is necessary. To schedule a baptism, please call the church office (763.420.5015).

Prayers of sympathy for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection. John & Anne Adix and family at the death of their sister-in-law

September 5 Coen Christopher Vorheis

John & Mary Adix and family at the death of their daughter-in-law

September 12 Everett Michael Olson

Sherry Benedict and family at the death of her stepfather

September 13 Laila Renee Loch

Marlys Erickson and family at the death of her husband

Peter Anastasia and family at the death of his father Gary Current and family at the death of his father

September 19 Davis Lee Behrns Mallory Renee Bross Cole Steven Goudy Austin James Grayson

Mark Franklin and family at the death of his father

September 20 Omar Abdul Malik Cisse Jameson Paul Stedman Roman Thomas Wolf

Dave & Rose Hobson and family at the death of his brother-in-law

September 26 Augustin Matthew Judkins

Sandy Munson and family at the death of her cousin

September 27 Palmer Isaac Olayemi Bartels Wesley Michael Carlson Kendall Jeanne Johnson Gabriel Thomas Nolden Beau Ryan Roberts Sawyer Jack Schneider Wyatt Paul Schneider

Tammy Haag and family at the death of her mother David & Mary Halsey with Caitlin and family at the death of their son and brother Ken Loney and family at the death of his brother Kristi McCormick and family at the death of her father Natalie Norcutt and family at the death of her uncle Kirk & Suzie Olson with Leo and family at the death of their stepfather and grandpa LeAnn Sargent and family at the death of her mother Kristen Wenker and family at the death of her mother

Special Services thanksgiving eve worship

Make plans to gather for worship at 7 pm on Wednesday, November 25. We have invited some of our neighbor and partner congregations to join us for worship. Invite your coworker, classmate, or friend. Plan to stay for pie afterwards. Happy Thanksgiving!

Family of Faith

service of remembrance

4 November 2015

All are welcome to join in for a special worship service, Sunday, November 1, at 7:30 pm. Whether you have been living with grief for days or years, come and be strengthened. Music, candles, holy communion, and a message of hope will fill the sanctuary and bless us all. Childcare is provided.

welcome to new members

Lord of Life’s

Family Faith of

Mary Bailey Jerry & Zola Dasinger Tony DeMarais & Tessa Frederiksen with Sean DeMarias Ray & JoAnn Donovan-Connoy Paul & Carey Kasbohm with Connor and Ryan Elsa Leven Matt & Tasha Norden with Grayce and Lilly

weddings September 5 Andrea Corradi & Peter Leszko September 12 Colleen Halligan & Joshua Martin Rebecca Olson & Kevin Winn September 18 Emily Berlin & Blake DeRosier September 19 Sara Flatequal & Scott Ophoven September 26 Katelyn Handberg & Casey Allen Andrea Paetznick & Adam Miller

Jack & Phyllis Rickert Vicki Roehl with Oliver Chris & Amy Ruch with Cordy, Conner, Olivia Ruch, and Bridget Hathaway Kipp & Carey Walberg with Beck and Merritt Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members but all members—is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church and its programs financially. For more information, contact Karen Klevar (karenk@ lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015 x116) or visit lordoflife. org/membership. You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life family of faith.

LifeGARDEN

by Bob Zappa We held our first pumpkin event on Sunday, September 27, after each worship service. What a success! We collected $293 in freewill donations given to CROSS foodshelf. The weather was perfect and the garden looked great. Many families enjoyed just walking around, watching the butterflies, bumblebees, and admiring the flowers. The kids had a great time picking out just the right pumpkin. See Page 2 for one of the kids! Joe Luchetta, Jean Campbell, and I were on hand answering gardening questions. The last week of September, Dick and Joanna Jorgenson delivered about fifty pumpkins directly to CROSS, which were taken by families in less than a day.

Thank you to Bob Zappa/Lisa Gerber for creating these lovely autumnal displays at the sanctuary entrance and Pat Smuda-Behr/Rae Morgan/ Judy Curtiss for their efforts at the Memoral Peace Garden!

Family of Faith

Thank you to all our gardeners for keeping LifeGARDEN looking so good and helping so many people. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

November 2015 5

1 Peter 5:10

And after you have suffered a little while,

the God of all grace,

who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself

restore,

confirm,

strengthen, and establish you.

Receiving Grace

by Debbie Nelson When my husband, Dan, and I got married 16 years ago we had many hopes and dreams. One of those dreams was to start a family. After three years on a rollercoaster of medical treatments, we chose to adopt internationally. We started our adoption journey in 2002. We made the decision to adopt from Ukraine. A year later and some stops and starts on travel, we set off on our adventure. After a few more hiccups in the country, we met our son, Matthew. I will never forget that day. I was shaking. He was tiny for 17 months. I fell in love. He was frightened. We learned later he had never been in a car, never had a bath, and had never seen a dog. All things we had to spend time adjusting to as a family. Two years later we decided to adopt a second child. Upon arriving in Ukraine, we spent five days working with our team, Evolve Adoption and Family Services, and finally received a referral for a child in another city. After an interesting 12-hour train ride, we arrived at the orphanage and met our son, Grant. He was short and had big eyes. He had a potato in his hand and much energy. His birth mother was older and had HIV and Hepatitis C. We worked with the University of Minnesota on blood tests and he tested negative. He doesn’t have either disease. Today our Matthew is in 8th grade. A third-degree black belt in Taekwondo. Plays lacrosse. And our Grant is in 6th grade. A second-degree black belt in Taekwondo. Both boys have achieved much in this sport. It gives them confidence and discipline. It is a big part of our lives that includes training, competition, and travel. People often tell me how great it was for us to adopt these two boys. While I appreciate the sentiment, I must say I am the lucky one. They make me a better person.

Lord of Life Ministries

It wasn’t until after we adopted our sons that I truly understood the meaning of God’s grace. God does have a plan for our lives. We just have to be patient and trust in Him.

6 November 2015

To the Foot of the Cross by Angela Starr

Because I feel compelled to share a personal story:

“

I went to church regularly, but I did not receive Jesus as my Savior.

“

I was born into a Christian family. For as long as I can remember, I went to church regularly, but I did not receive Jesus as my Savior. I had constantly questioned my faith and was searching for this ‘dramatic and magical thing’ to happen from God to tell me that He is here and He is real. Going to college, my mind was in different places constantly, making it difficult to focus on my relationship with the Lord. And I could not change my habits. During this time I had many health complications; I was admitted to the hospital for what seemed an overwhelming amount of times. One of my biggest complications was when I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis. Both of these complications consisted of ruptured cysts on my ovaries during the time of ovulation (at one point 18 cysts).

I just wanted to thank many individuals who have helped me along this journey; this was just a remembrance that you truly were brought into my life for reasons beyond my comprehension: Jaime Castonguay, Nicole Castonguay, Alexa Kristine, Bette Block, Abby Kreklau, Alex Holland, Megan Kenney, Tara Madison, Kim Starr, Raul Garcia III. Originally posted on Facebook, September 3, 2015.

Lord of Life Ministries

Long story short, I was told that I would never be able to have children, and my only chance would be 4% going through in vitro. I was depressed, and confused, and blamed God for putting me in this position. Without any chance of having children, I had made the choice to freeze my eggs, and go through a surgery to remove the ruptured cyst ‘debris.’ From that point on, God worked in a powerful and amazing way, because He gave me a miracle. Two months after having these procedures, I found out I was pregnant. I had turned the negative situation—being 21 and pregnant and not married—to the most positive and beautiful situation. I am defeating the odds as I am graduating, working full-time, and being a mommy full-time thanks to my amazing support system. I can confidently say my son, Brooks, is by far the best thing that has ever happened to me, and his dad; I will lead Brooks to the foot of the cross daily. With all of this, I have come to know Christ in a way that I never dreamed about. I devote myself to Him, and I promise to live my life, and guide Brooks’ life, to the glory and honor of Christ. I know that times may not always be easy but knowing that I am growing with the Lord, and with the help of my fellow Christians, makes everything worth it. I will continue to ask God for forgiveness of my sins and accept Him as my Savior.

November 2015 7

Community Worship

by Pastoral Intern Taylor Wilson For my pastoral internship at Lord of Life, Luther Seminary has asked me to complete a project that connects my congregation with the broader community. One of the options is to partner with people from other churches in the community to create an opportunity for the unchurched (or Christians looking for an additional time to praise God!) to gather in fellowship, teaching, and worship. This option sounded like an exciting challenge, and I began to brainstorm possible sites and partners. I soon reached out to Brian and Jill Dejewski at Mobile Hope, a ministry in Maple Hill Estates of Corcoran; they loved the idea of partnering. Together, we’ve been developing a concept for ecumenical community worship at the new Hope Center in Maple Hill Estates. Worship services began on October 18; they continue every Sunday from 5-6 pm. While you’re certainly invited to join us in worship, I would love to get you involved in a leadership role! The current need includes musicians, greeters, and people willing to set-up and teardown before and after the service. Please contact me (taylorw@lordoflife.org) to sign up or if you have questions.

Budget Year-to-date September 2015 Actual

Total member contributions

Rally Sunday = 120 dozen donuts!

All other

Difference

$2,208,859 $2,158,802 $208,466

Total receipts

Budget

$205,012

$3,454

$2,417,324 $2,363,814

$53,511

Lord of Life Weekly Giving — September 2015 $120,000 $100,000 $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 0

Generosity

8 November 2015

$50,057

9/6 9/13 9/20 9/27

Actual $61,085 $104,856 $62,510 $47,112 $71,142 $71,142 $71,142 Budget $71,142

Older Wiser Lutherans november

women’s golf by Jean Campbell In late September, ten nearly professional women golfers from Lord of Life’s Women’s Golf group topped off a summer of fun together on the golf course with a weekend get away to Paynesville, Minnesota. Perfect weather, lots of fun, and nearly perfect scores on the course. Our other 20 golfing buddies are nearly perfect, too. They just had conflicts for the weekend. We’ll be starting to play again in May 2016 (just a few months away)! Don’t pack your clubs away too deep and plan to join us.

Thursday, November 5: “Insider Information” with guest John Lauritsen, a reporter with WCCO. An Emmy Award winner, John has been a reporter, anchor, sports reporter, editor, producer, and photographer. Come and hear his personal story and learn about the world of news reporting. We begin at noon in the Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. Don’t miss it! Wednesday, November 18: Worship services at Arbor Lakes at 12:45 pm and/or Rose Arbor Assisted Living at 2:30 pm. Thursday, November 19: Feed My Starving Children—Please join in to pack meals that are specifically formulated to feed malnourished children. The meals are distributed to over 70 countries. We will have an early lunch on your own at Carol’s in Blaine before packing the meals. We will leave church at 10:15 am and return at 3 pm. Cost is $7. Register at lordoflife.org/OWLsFeedMyStarvingChildren or on the bulletin board. Tuesday, November 24: LifeTIMES labeling in Fellowship Hall at 9:30 am.

20 years of source mn

Thursday, December 3: The OWLs Annual Christmas Party - “Deck the Halls” with guest Steven Marking. Steven received his masters degree in voice from Peabody Conservatory. He spent several years in New York studying and performing. He has performed with the Minnesota Opera, the Metropolitan Symphony, Schubert Club, and is a member of the MN Chorale. Pastor Peter will give devotions. The celebration begins at 12 noon in Fellowship Hall with a freewill donation lunch. You are welcome to bring a donation of mittens and scarves. See you there! Thursday, December 17: Come join in for a Sinatra Holiday Bash with Christmas My Way at the Plymouth Playhouse. Cost is $23; lunch on your own before the show at the Green Mill. We leave Lord of Life at 10:30 am and return at 4 pm, so “Start Spreading the News!” See the bulletin board or lordoflife.org/owls for more details of upcoming events. Cancellations due to weather will be on the authority of the event leader and made at least 24 hours in advance when possible; calls will be made to all participants. Questions? Contact Joyce or Gordy Martin directly at grjsmartin@embarqmail.com or 763.497.7355.

Lord of Life Ministries

You are invited to celebrate and honor the directors of Source MN, Peter and Jessica Wohler, at Lord of Life on Friday, November 20. Homeless youth, unchurched and skeptical, urban poor, sex trafficking victims, emerging artists, interns, staff, volunteers, and many others have been positively affected by the Wohlers. We will also celebrate 20 years of Source MN’s homeless youth, art initiative, and transitional home programs. Hear stories of the past and present while learning about Source MN’s goals for the future. Registration is at 6:30 pm, dinner at 7 pm, and presentation at 8 pm. Cost is $30 per person or a table of eight for $200. Please register at sourcemn.org.

save the date

November 2015 9

Silent Knights

by Stephanie Perron As a recently widowed mom of three kids, I was delighted when I was contacted by Blake Toms, the leader of Lord of Life’s Silent Knights ministry. My late husband, Troy, was a professional handyman, and would have been eager to be part of this ministry. I would always joke that I felt like the shoemaker’s wife, whose children had no shoes—as the handyman’s wife, I didn’t have closet shelves. When my husband died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 48, his Teddy, Ashley, Mary never-ending ‘honey-do list’ came to a screeching halt. The tiling project that was started, and not finished. Light switches that needed to be replaced, and other small home repairs, were piling up. It was a daily reminder to me and the kids that we were left to figure out more than we had thought. That’s where the Silent Knights came in. On a Saturday in July, a team of qualified men and eager youth descended on my house and went to work. Within hours, the last few pieces of tile were set, new light fixtures were hung, light switches worked, and wall repair was complete. Other projects like the sanding of railings on our outside sidewalk were taken care of, and smoke detectors were checked, and replaced. Just like that!! My ‘honey-do list’ was checked off; my home felt right again. For me it was a strange feeling to have other people walking around my house, doing the projects that were done by my husband. In the past we had worked as a team. I was the one to hold the other end of the tape measure, the person to man the circuit box, or round up the paint supplies. This time, the work was done with proficiency and skill. And I learned it is ok to accept help, and let others use their gifts to serve.

Lord of Life Ministries

Thank you, Silent Knights, for helping my family and making our house a home again!

10 November 2015

One Mission One World: Jamaica—

Breakfast

On Sunday, November 8, Lord of Life’s Jamaican missionaries will be hosting a freewill offering breakfast in Fellowship Hall. The proceeds from this breakfast will benefit our mission partners. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while supporting and learning about the following needs in Jamaica:

clifton boys’ home Clifton Boys’ Home is a safe environment for boys, ages 8-18, to live where safety, education, and Christian values are fostered. At age 18, boys typically leave the home with hope for a positive future by having an education, job-worthy skills, and knowing what it means to be a part of a loving family. Lord of Life missionaries have worked on various construction projects, provided Vacation Bible School activities, and simply played with or hung out with the boys.

medical In a local clinic, licensed medical and non-licensed lay people are needed to provide proper intake, triage, medical care, pharmacy, and education. Also needed is to offer prayer support for people who live in various communities around Montego Bay. Reading glasses plus hand & foot care can also be provided.

westhaven children’s home Westhaven is a home for about 80 children/young adults with varying degrees of disabilities, both mental and physical. Lord of Life missionaries serve by providing care and interaction with the children, constructing new facilities, and improving the home’s overall conditions. It is an incredibly rewarding experience to receive far more than is given.

Letter to Me

by Bret Jordahl If I could write a letter to myself before the first of my six mission trips with Lord of Life’s One Mission One World: Jamaica team, it would look something like this:

2008 -old Me, Dear 14-year

al You ow your mor l ol f to 24-year-old l oo c r o to ou mother. y e b g u to h g to n i o g or , er ss P.S. You’re nepvay attention in math cla compass, to

2013

2014

Lord of Life Ministries

andful of h a d n a , y l , Ke a ith Mom, Daldto Montego Bay , Jamaic w g on l (a u o y Next year, Lord of Life) wil trave spend that week at d others from-long mission trip. You wil hanage for mentaly anruction for a week Children’s Home, an orpYou wil help with constfor the Westhaven andicapped children. provide care and love physicaly hnance projects. You wil and mainte kids. il push you. w p i r t s i ee h t , k hat wee ore. You wil slike f e b n e e s r e And during t nev ring ip like you’vne before. You wil see sufe h s d r a h e e s You wil e you’ve never see poverty liker seen before. . il change you w you’ve nev p i r t s i h t , e been before. ext decad n r e e v h e t e r v ’ e u v o o y to an But your family thfun.) You wil grow closeerfore. to r e os l c w You wil grothey’re actualy a lot ofan you’ve ever been b (trust me, bers of Lord of Life th ou’ve ever been before. other mem w closer to God than y ives of the l e h ro t g l m i w or f s u n o Y ra This trip wil t ? t r a p t s e b And the serve. wil witnessthe u o Y . s e m people you o h f o ess the completiroenns’ health. You wil witn ss e n it w l i w d You n of the chil ur the progressfioa community. riences of yo e p ex l a ti n e formation o u l t inf e of the mos on e b l i w p i This tr young life. ery second. v e e v o l l i w And you Sincerely ,

November 2015 11

2020 and Beyond

by Merle Waldron and Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren “Everything you wanted to know about what’s happening at Lord of Life but were afraid to ask” On Sunday, November 22, join in an L5 One-shot Forum. Lord of Life’s Council President Merle Waldron and Pastor Karen will share what the council does and where we are heading in the future. They will also share what has been put in place to ensure we remain vibrant and follow our mission. Forums are at 9:45 and 11 am. No registration is needed. ONE-SHOT FORUM

Veterans Dinner Invitation by Michael Yu Lord of Life’s Military Family Support Ministry would like to invite all veterans and their families to a dinner celebrating Veterans Day on Friday, November 13, from 1730 to 2030 (5:30-8:30 pm).

In our annual tradition, we will have the military branch musical medley at all November 7/8 worship services (Saturday: 5:30 pm/Sunday: 8:30; 9:45, 11 am). This is when we invite all veterans to stand up to be recognized and honored. We’d like to say thanks to all the veterans and their families for their sacrifices in the defense of our nation.

Lord of Life Ministries

RSVP for the dinner by contacting Karen Nelson at 763.420.5015 x138 or email at karenn@lordoflife.org. A freewill donation at the dinner will go to our local veteran homeless shelters.

12 November 2015

parents of teens, mark your calendars You are invited to “Parenting Our Teens” on Sunday, November 8, at 6 pm and Wednesday, November 11, at 6:30 pm. The topic has changed from Celebrating the Positive to Our Mental Health led by Pastor Karen Sue Greimel.

club 56 Save the date: Friday, December 4, will be an ugly sweater party! Dig out the ugliest, silliest sweater you have, throw on some wild headbands, hats, mismatched socks, then come hang out together from 5-9 pm. We’ll have pizza, decorate Christmas cookies, crafts and giftmaking stations, bounce houses, bingo, backyard sledding/skating, and the Christmas story. Our service project will be making tie blankets. Cost is $25 per youth.

Prior to confirmation/affirmation of baptism services last month, all C3 students submit both a faith story and a faith statement. A special thank you to Baylee Beulke for sharing this excerpt from her faith statement:

november weekly schedule C3 and middle school/high school

Sundays: November 1, 8, 15, 22 5-6 pm: C3 groups (7th & 8th grade only) 5:15-6:30 pm: Family meal 6-7 pm: C3 groups / L5 class 7-7:45 pm: Ecclesia Worship in Samaritan Hall 7:45-8:45 pm: Explore middle school youth group Express high school youth group Wednesdays: November 4, 11, 18 4:30-5:30 pm: C3 groups 5:30-6:30 pm: Family meal 6:30-7:30 pm: C3 groups / L5 class

“I believe that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and that we are nowhere near perfect, but God loves us anyways. I believe that there is one God and He is Father of all creations. I believe the Bible was made to help us through tough, happy, sad, hopeless, joyful, and exciting parts of life. God’s word always impacts people for the better. I believe in spreading God’s word as much as possible and becoming God’s hands and feet through service. I believe all believers will go to heaven. I believe God accepts all His children with open arms, as long as they believe in Him. I believe it’s never too late to believe in God. I believe sharing your faith is one way to make it grow. But most importantly, I believe we are all children of God, loved beyond measure.” —Baylee Beulke

High School Field Trip saturday, november 21 10 am–3:30 pm Cost: $10

/lordoflife /lolcyf

Lord of Life Ministries

Our next field trip is coming up! We’ll start with brunch and then head out to volunteer with Free Bikes 4 Kids. For all 9-12th graders—invite your friends! Sign up at lordoflife.org/highschool.

November 2015 13

Over Rally Weekend, Church School students learned that Jesus said, “Come follow me.” See their shoe outlines and footprints; may we all learn, “I good to others.”

God won’t just always answer your prayers right away, and it may take time. —9th grade preschool VBS helper

For 4th graders and 3-year-olds this month—

November Milestones

Lord of Life Ministries

During November, 4th graders and their caring adults are learning about stewardship at home using packets of information that have been mailed to them. To honor their homework, November 7/8 is the weekend 4th graders will stop by the Youth Booth for a special gift. The Youth Booth is located in the foyer near the Reflections of Faith store. It’s all about Advent for 3-year-olds and their caring adults. During their regular Church School class on November 28/29, the lesson is about Advent, which is the time of waiting before Christmas. Each child will be presented with a special Advent book of devotions.

14 November 2015

Hurry! Hurry! Lord of Life’s collection of shoebox gifts for Operation Christmas Child continues through Wednesday, November 18. For more information on how or what to pack, see the display near the main office or go to samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/packa-shoe-box. Gifts for 10-14 year old boys and girls are particularly needed. Thank you.

Lord of Life is honored to partner with families on their faith journeys.

November Book Pick

November Bible Verse: Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your

Small Acts of Kindness by James R. Vollbracht

neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart. Proverbs 3:3

Happy November!

by Angie Schiebel, Director of Karing Kingdom Preschool November brings with it a cornucopia of fun! We begin the month by making pretzels with Lord of Life’s Loaves of Love ministry. Next, we will prepare for Thanksgiving by making placemats for our very own Thanksgiving feast in Karing Kingdom Preschool. Yes, it’s turkey with all the fixings! A beautifully illustrated and charming story, for children and adults, about how small acts of kindness can lead to great acts of love.

For more information about Karing Kingdom Preschool, please contact us at kingdom@lordoflife.org or call 763.420.5015 x127.

Our Chapel Chat theme for November is Being Thankful; our G.L.O.W. (Giving Little Ones Wisdom) topic is Bus Safety. The final theme for the month is Fairy Tales, which will be topped off by a field trip to the Old Log Theater to see Cinderella. Our Kindness Projects continue during November: •

Operation Christmas Child (boxes are due by November 18),

•

Usborne Book Fair (all proceeds are donated in the form of books to the Ronald McDonald House school),

•

KidPack (a weekend food program for school age children),

•

and a coat drive.

Karing Kingdom parent conferences are on Monday, November 23, and Tuesday, November 24. We are closed for the Thanksgiving holiday, November 25-27.

Lord of Life Ministries

With the Teddy Bear Band providing great music, Fellowship Hall was filled for a picnic with all shapes and sizes of families and teddy bears!

November 2015 15

LO R D O F L I F E L U T H E RA N CHU R CH (E LCA ) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org

Nonprofit US Postage Paid Maple Grove, MN Permit #14

LifeTIMES is a monthly ministry of Lord of Life Lutheran Church printed by Wallace Carlson Printing using ecofriendly inks. To receive LifeTIMES in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or stop in the church office or email office@lordoflife.org with your name & address. We invite you to share faith stories, Lord of Life ministry events, photos, poetry & artwork. Submissions may be edited. Deadline for the December issue is November 1. Copyright © 2015 Lord of Life Lutheran Church

R E T U RN SE RVICE RE Q U E ST E D

caught reading lifetimes We love to be a part of your lives and feature your photos. For this issue, and all of them, thanks for packing a LifeTIMES. Keep ‘em coming! —Editor Bev Mello (bevm@lordoflife.org)

Complete with a giraffe photobomb, Tracy, Tatum, and Taverie Sherner are caught reading LifeTIMES while on a photo safari in South Africa.

Ahoy there, matey! Mike & Nancy Cooley’s family are caught reading LifeTIMES in Mystic Seaport, Connecticut.

Jake and Jordyn Rogalski outside Wrigley Field in Chicago.

16 November 2015